The essential… Carlos Sainz

Toro Rosso’s Carlos Sainz has already enjoyed a stellar start to his rookie season, scoring in two of his four Grands Prix to date, and this weekend sees another milestone in his fledgling F1 career - his very first home race. What better time, then, to get to know the young Spaniard a little better…

What are the essential elements of your pre-race routine?

Carlos Sainz: I do always the same. My method and my routine are always exactly the same: a 15-minute warm-up, always the same stretching. I’ve done that since last year. I received tips on how to go into a race with the maximum confidence.

What are the essential ingredients of a good night out?

CS: Good girls.

What essential items must you have in your driver’s room/motorhome at a race?

CS: I have a Spanish flag in my room. I have speakers and a lot of photos of my heroes: Rafael Nadal, Fernando Alonso, Muhammad Ali, Alberto Contador, and Seve Balesteros - the best in different sports!

What essential items do I have in my driver's room? Photos of my heroes, including Fernando Alonso...Carlos Sainz

What essential items must you always have in your fridge at home?

CS: I have water and lots of fruits. And eggs. I love eggs!

What are your essential qualities for a girlfriend/wife/partner?

CS: That she has confidence in me. It is not easy when you travel so much and you hear about the glamour of F1 - about all the beautiful girls - so it is all about confidence and trust.

What are essential qualities of a good F1 team mate?

CS: He has to be fast. Because that will make me go faster. A nice guy, well mannered.

Your essential tip for avoiding stress at airports?

CS: Have some music to listen to - and good company.

What are the essential qualities of an F1 driver?

CS: Fast. Determined. And a bit selfish. Think about yourself a bit more than normal.

What is essential to help you wind down after a race?

CS: That depends a lot on the feeling. And the result!

What are the essential elements of great racing circuit?

CS: It needs to be flowing. Not too many second-gear corners! The best example for flowing is Spa. High-speed change of direction and a tarmac that is a bit hard on the tyres!

What app is it essential to have on your phone?

CS: Instagram and Facebook

What are the essential qualities of a team boss?

CS: He has to help and understand the drivers. When you do something wrong he tells you straight to your face.

The essential elements of a great circuit? It needs to flow - and not have too many second gear corners!Carlos Sainz

What are your essential requirements at a hotel?

CS: A king-size bed and a charger close to the bed. A shower and not a bathtub.

What is the essential Grand Prix every fan should attend at least once in their lifetime?

CS: I have not seen too many tracks. Of course, Monaco - and Barcelona!